Reportedly, behind closed doors at Gamescom, Nintendo unveiled the highly-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, raising eyebrows with its visual prowess, potentially rivaling that of the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. The whispers suggest that this next-gen console may even flaunt DLSS and ray-tracing capabilities.
According to VGC, Nintendo chose to demonstrate the potential of their upcoming Switch iteration using The Matrix Awakens, an Unreal Engine 5 tech demo. Historically exclusive to the Xbox Series X and PS5 due to its utilization of cutting-edge features like DLSS and ray-tracing, this tech demo is a leap forward for Nintendo. By running it on the Switch 2, Nintendo seems to be signaling that their new console can keep pace with the offerings from Microsoft and Sony. Read Full Reviews, Guides and Tips & Tricks of the Latest Games Click here.
DLSS, for context, is a real-time upscaling technique currently employed in current-gen consoles and RTX cards for PC, enabling gaming at higher resolutions without compromising performance. This implies that the Nintendo Switch 2, when docked, might handle resolutions beyond 1080p. Meanwhile, ray-tracing is a rendering technique that creates lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows in real time.
Eurogamer chimed in, reporting that the new Nintendo console made a covert appearance at Gamescom under the moniker “Switch 2.” Alongside the Unreal Engine 5 Matrix demo, Nintendo allegedly showcased an enhanced version of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. However, it’s essential to clarify that this was merely a tech demo, and it doesn’t confirm a remaster for the Switch 2.
RELATED: NINTENDO SWITCH OLED MARIO RED EDITION: A SUPER MARIO BROS. WONDER
These exclusive previews were reportedly reserved for key partners, leaving fans eagerly awaiting an official announcement from Nintendo. According to VGC, the anticipated launch of the console is slated for the second half of the following year, a strategic move to prevent shortages similar to those experienced with the Xbox Series X/S and PS5.
Additionally, VGC characterizes this new console as a successor to the Switch, rather than an entirely new platform. Allegedly, it offers both docked and handheld modes, though it’s rumored to employ an LCD screen, unlike the OLED screen in the newest Switch model. This choice is aimed at cost reduction, as higher-fidelity games demand more storage.
Reports further suggest that the new Switch will retain a cartridge slot, implying the possibility of backward compatibility. However, until Nintendo officially unveils the console, details remain speculative. With the supposed launch of the Switch 2 on the horizon, we may not need to exercise patience for much longer before hearing directly from Nintendo themselves.